Occupational therapy for adults in Geneva: improving independence and quality of life
Why consult an occupational therapist in adulthood?
Occupational therapy is essential for adults faced with loss of autonomy due to accident, chronic illness or neurological disorder. Its aim is to help them regain their mobility, adapt their environment and relearn the gestures that are essential for daily and professional independence.
Main indications for adult occupational therapy
- Occupational therapy sessions are particularly suitable for people with :
- Neurological disorders (stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, neuropathies).
- Post-traumatic sequelae (fractures, post-operative after-effects, recovery from prolonged immobilization).
- Chronic pain (low back pain, neck pain, musculoskeletal disorders).
- Musculoskeletal disorders (tendonitis, grip difficulties, muscle weakness).
- Loss of independence in daily activities (dressing, hygiene, cooking, getting around).
- Difficulties returning to work after a prolonged break.
Occupational therapists offer personalized support, tailored to the specific needs of each patient.
What areas does adult occupational therapy cover?
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Functional rehabilitation and muscle strengthening
After trauma or surgery, it is essential to restore mobility and muscle strength. The occupational therapist draws up a rehabilitation program including targeted exercises to improve joint amplitude, coordination and prehension.
For example, after a wrist fracture, rehabilitation includes mobilization exercises, muscle strengthening and relearning everyday gestures such as writing or dressing.
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Improved mobility and balance
Certain pathologies, such as Parkinson's disease or the after-effects of a stroke, cause problems with balance and walking. The occupational therapist helps to :
- Re-learn how to walk safely to reduce the risk of falling.
- Improve coordination and proprioception.
- Adapting the environment to make getting around easier, for example by adapting the home.
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Re-learning everyday gestures
Many adults have difficulty performing everyday tasks such as dressing, cooking or driving. Occupational therapists teach compensation techniques and adapt movements to make these actions more accessible.
A patient suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the hands, for example, can learn to use ergonomic utensils to facilitate household tasks and limit pain.
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Workplace adaptation and return to employment
Occupational therapy plays a key role in preventing musculoskeletal disorders and adapting working conditions. The aim is to help adults retain their jobs despite physical limitations.
This may include :
- Workstation analysis and equipment adjustment (adjustable desk, ergonomic seat).
- Ergonomic advice to avoid bad posture and prevent pain.
- Support in reintegrating the workforce after a prolonged break.
How does occupational therapy for adults work?
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Initial assessment and needs evaluation
The first occupational therapy consultation lasts an average of 45 minutes, and is used to analyze the patient's difficulties. The occupational therapist performs :
- A detailed discussion of functional limitations and their impact on daily life.
- Tests to assess mobility, muscular strength and coordination.
- Definition of rehabilitation goals adapted to the patient's needs and expectations.
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Setting up a personalized rehabilitation program
Each session is adapted to the patient's progress and may include :
- Functional recovery exercises (mobilization, muscle strengthening).
- Real-life situations to help you relearn everyday gestures.
- Work on pain management and improved posture.
For example, after a stroke, the rehabilitation program will focus on fine motor skills, coordination and muscle strengthening to facilitate eating, writing and dressing.
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Monitoring and adjusting care
The number of sessions depends on the patient's pathology and progress. On average, a course of treatment comprises around 15 sessions, with regular adjustments to optimize progress.
The occupational therapist may also recommend :
- Home exercises to speed up recovery.
- Specific adaptations to improve independence.
- Support to make it easier to resume a social or professional activity.
Conclusion
Occupational therapy for adults is a comprehensive approach to improving independence after an accident, chronic illness or loss of mobility. Thanks to tailored sessions, it's possible to regain a better quality of life and make it easier to resume daily and professional activities.
